Japan's Hayabusa2 probe captured rare close-up images of near-Earth asteroid Torifune, revealing a snowman-like shape made of two joined lobes.The mission, which demonstrated the ability to deflect potentially dangerous space rocks, involved the probe skimming the asteroid at a speed exceeding 18,000 kilometers per hour.

JAXA scientists expressed astonishment at the clarity of the images, which showed distinct rock formations and hinted at the asteroid's complex surface.

The black-and-white image, captured by a telescopic camera, provided critical data for understanding near-Earth asteroids' variability in size, shape, and composition.

Researchers emphasized the importance of such missions for planetary defense strategies, as the flyby could aid efforts to redirect hazardous asteroids.JAXA confirmed the probe's proximity to the asteroid, which could mark one of the closest flybys of a near-Earth asteroid ever recorded.

Additionally, the mission successfully gathered data from three devices measuring distance and detecting potential water presence, further advancing space exploration capabilities.

The discovery underscores the significance of international collaboration in addressing cosmic threats and expanding scientific knowledge about celestial bodies.